Definitions for backstayˈbækˌsteɪ

This page provides all possible meanings and translations of the word backstay

Princeton's WordNet(0.00 / 0 votes)Rate this definition:

backstay(noun)

a stay that supports the back of something

Wiktionary(0.00 / 0 votes)Rate this definition:

backstay(Noun)

A part of the rigging of a sailing ship extending from masthead the top of the mast to the back of the ship; they support the strain on all upper masts and provide additional support to the shrouds when the wind is abaft the beam.

Webster Dictionary(0.00 / 0 votes)Rate this definition:

Backstay(noun)

a rope or stay extending from the masthead to the side of a ship, slanting a little aft, to assist the shrouds in supporting the mast

Backstay(noun)

a rope or strap used to prevent excessive forward motion

Freebase(0.00 / 0 votes)Rate this definition:

Backstay

On a sailing vessel, a backstay is the piece of standing rigging that runs from the mast to the transom of the boat, counteracting the forestay and jib. The backstay is an important sail trim control and has a direct effect on the shape of the mainsail and the headsail.